A total of 86 players applied for transfer releases from their respective clubs prior to the end of last month's Bermuda Football Association (BFA) first transfer period.

However, final numbers could increase during the second transfer period which runs from July 1 through to July 31. There is also a late, late release period for players wishing to switch clubs which runs from August 1 to August 31.

Last year saw a total of 143 players transfer to new clubs, 32 of which came via the late transfer period. All late transferees are not eligible to play for their new clubs until November 15.

During the 1993/94 off-season transfer period, a record 333 players opted for transfers while over the 1999/00 off-season period, a record low of 82 players obtained transfers.

"Over the years we have been steadily seeing the numbers decrease to the actual record low which was in 1999," said BFA general secretary David Sabir.

"What we do have to take into consideration is that we have a second period, our late release period, which will have an impact on the actual total."

Sabir refused to give out details on which clubs may have been impacted the most as a result of players moving on.

"It doesn't necessarily mean that all of these players are leaving. We anticipate that a large number of them will transfer with a new team," he said.

"Essentially, throughout the summer period, players take the opportunity to release themselves as an option on whether or not they are going to stay with their current club or register with a new club."

Though it has yet to be confirmed, expected to be hit hardest by the transfer bug are relegated clubs PHC and Somerset Trojans, while those who may benefit could be potential First Division newcomers, Magnum Force and Premier Division newcomers Hamilton Parish and Southampton Rangers.